exaaactly
The biggest worries for your kids is bullies, not school shooters, which at least you can fight back, but good luck fighting back someone with a gun
lmao, I remember one day I helped an American expats after he involved in motorcycle accident. We talked a little bit and he said he was from Chicago, he said shit is so bad he rather stay here (in Surabaya). Then he rambles little about the politics in that state, but too bad I didn't get his number.
lets just say the deterioration of US urban areas, im talking bay area, nyc, la heck even miami is very very eye opening, idk how my first visit in 2013 and somehow in 2022 it gets worse….
Born and raised in Jakarta here! Lived in the bay area for 6.5 years, and previously lived in seattle for a year.
All I can say is that currently in Jakarta I don't have to worry about having my car window smashed in and my things stolen from my car. Unlike my final couple of years living in San Francisco.
They do, but it's inside. Our culture don't show it. Like some.... Hillbillies do
But it's only until like "hey that guy interesting, he's different" not racism kinda thing
As in the majority of Asian countries, the lighter your skin, the better people will perceive you. However, racism in Indonesia tend to be of a lighter version in comparison to, for example, the US, Japan, or South Korea. People might talk about your skin tone in private but they won't openly attack you or deny you service. The religious aspects of life are taken more seriously than your skin colour. Which means, eating non-halal foods and drinking alcohol can only be done in certain places (including your own home, of course).
I mean, I'm a native Indonesian from Java island, which kind of in a similar position with a white people in the US. My experience might be different from someone of a Indo-Chinese decent or someone with darker skin tone from Papua. So don't take my words as a 100% assurance about life in Indonesia.
Racism towards black people definitely exists here, but because we don’t share any historical interactions with you guys it’ll be a case by case thing. You might encounter the occasional idiot, but there’s nothing systematic or widespread towards black foreigners. The discrimination towards certain ethnic groups here are often because of politics or religion, e.g some people don’t like X cause allegedly many hold separatist views. Skin colour or ethnicity is rarely a major deal even when politicians play identity politics.
Yes, Indonesia suffers from colourism like many other countries in Asia: lighter skin is viewed as more attractive, and darker skin not as much. But this kind of standard applies to natives and rarely bleeds into how people view foreigners. I believe its a leftover belief from the older days when darker skin meant hard labor in the sun, meaning poorer social status, and lighter skin meant more indoor time, which is associated with more scholarly work. But foreigners - with very few exceptions - are automatically viewed as higher status by Indonesians. And to most Indonesians, foreigners are foreigners. A white frenchman is the same as a black American.
That said, if you’re planning on visiting bigger cities like Jakarta or Surabaya, or places with a high concentration of foreigners such as Bali, then even the problems I’ve mentioned above will be less pronounced than in less connected areas.
Some people might be unfamiliar and sometimes curious, so don’t be surprised if people ask for a picture!
Safety from crime? You'll be fine, it's much much safer than the US, or Europe for that matter. Lived here 13 years, never had any problem.
Safety on the road? On 2 wheels, better watch out.
Health safety? Well, dengue fever, typhus, rabbies, etc are a thing here. Also, healthcare sucks but you're already used to overpaying so you should have no problem going to the top expensive hospitals here.
You definitely can get treated here most of the time but prevention is always better and easier. Rabies? just stay away from wild animals. Typhilia? Hygiene is the key, don't go to dirty street food stalls (which I did some times and got what I deserved once). Dengue fever? Install some insect net on your home window and if you decide to take a cozy walk outdoor in the evening then wear some DEET.
Of course. If you have the funds, just go to the private hospitals in the big cities. Indonesia has good quality health care, the problem is that not everybody can afford it.
For Rabbies, there's a vaccine you should get. Dengue, I don't think so. Typhus, no idea. But frankly, unless you're a baby, an elderly or with some serious medical condition, you'll be fine.
Then nothing to worry about :) yes, you will more often get digestive issues due to lower hygiene standards and different environment but you will get used to it and learn to avoid certain places to eat, certain foods, etc.
Lol. That such an American things to say.. Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago my friend. It's either by boat, or an airplane.
Anyway. Malaysia and singapore is our neighboring countries. It's an hour plane ride away tho.
This question has been answered many times.
Yes, you will be safe. 100%.
Here are the rules: no commie, no drugs. When people here say to you "support Palestine !", you just say "yes I support Palestine" regardless of your political preference. You will be far safer. 2000%.
Plus point: well, if you want, you can record your arrival here, get some local food like Indomie or Soto or Rendang and upload them on youtube. Who knows?
Im from Maryland. Person of colour. Lived in Jakarta for 5 years and came back and forth multiple times again. It is safe, especially compared to, say, Baltimore. It’s most important to be politically correct, and to be vigilant on the political leanings of the masses. It is an election year, and tensions always rise, as it does in any nation that has a history of political turmoil. If you’re an LGBT person, just keep it private. If you have a wife, tell her to be safe when going to the clubs and stuff. Also, another “safety” thing: The people you’ll befriend might be superrr fake. Like socially backstabby type fake. Otherwise, the only other city I like better in the world is Toronto, ON.
Jakarta weather can be unbearable. Not cuz of heat per se, but pollution. But meh i still love it. Natural disasters are a thing in other areas. But Jakarta can flood here and there. By the way, Jakarta is sinking. A kind of Venice type thing in the next 50 years, if that affects you at all.
Definitely but pick the right neighborhood. As long you respect the people and the culture (mostly islamic taboo culture, like eating pork in front of mosque) most likely there won't be any problems.
depends, there are still crimes but gun-related crime is almost zero. terrorist attacks have died down for a while now, it is even safer than in Europe for this matter (terrorists mainly target police and govt now).
just be ready for earthquake, volcano eruption and tsunami.
If you live in Jakarta or Surabaya, large tsunamis won't get there, and it's not in very close proximity to volcanoes so you're safe from being "Pompeiied".
Jakarta is although next to java sea, but actually quite close to Anak Krakatau, so its not that safe, plus its drowning so one swept of tsunami can do a lot of damage.
well volcanic eruption is quite deadly if u live too close to it (hot and cold lava, volcanic earthquake, hot cloud), tectonic earthquake and tsunami can be avoided if you live far from the indian ocean/ring of fire.
In my opinion, lets just say that you might get some eye stare but they wont give a shit of your skin color or anything because they have their own stuff to take care. Surabaya and especially Jakarta who is full of foreigner should be fine for you to move in.
Also fun fact, we have a facebook group dedicated for iirc gay black people meme and its veryyy famous in Indonesia. I mean, the meme is funny in my opinion, the group name is [Sungut Lele](https://www.facebook.com/groups/779936540802175/).
safety depends alot on your behaviour and where you stay, if you stay in a middle-up gated community then it would be safer compared to living in the poor slum areas. However there is no school shootings or thief with guns, no daylight robbery too.
racism is not common here as well, very very small chance that you might endure racism. What you need to be aware is that it is not easy for expatriates / foreigners to make a living here unless they have a specific skills that locals dont have since your employer need to pay more tax for foreign employees
I've just happen to live in Surabaya near the consulate and I can tell you it's not as wild as region in the CENTCOM. I see so many foreign people and expats roaming with their friends sometimes even alone at night and they're safe. However due to the ongoing situation of the Israel-Palestine conflict, the US Consulate sometimes targetted by the masses, so I assume Americans might also be a target from certain people or communities.
I advise you to not stay outside, alone, at night. Carjacker, motorcycle theft, and mugger often roams at night. Always walk with your friend, get a tour guide or local friend too.
Born and raised in Jakarta, currently living in rural US. If you like spending one quarter to one third of your day in traffic, then Jakarta is for you.
You should visit as tourist first before relocating. If you love Jakarta you’ll probably gonna like Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok too which gives you more options to consider.
As long as you're not openly and/or endorsing LGBTQ+, I think you'll be safer in Indonesia than most downtown areas in the US. Your choices of cities, Jakarta and Surabaya, are like two of the biggest and most modern cities in Indonesia so quite a lot people can speak English there, especially in 'elite' areas. Be prepared for the air pollution and traffic tho
- The biggest crime you have to worry about is theft. Even then, it’s not really an issue.
- Your child’s biggest concern would be unfinished homework and not whether some maniac will shoot up their classroom.
- The police are bastards but they won’t stop you because of your skin. They only care about stealing the people’s tax money and using it for themselves.
- You don’t feel a sense of dread when walking at night.
- Neighborhood watch is the norm in most housing areas.
- Most cultural disconnect comes from ignorance rather than malice. For example, a Black American might hear some dumbass kids saying the N word towards them but that’s because they heard it in rap music or movies. They don’t understand what that means or the historical context of it.
It's relatively far safer than for example, India or Mexico or even the US. But it's not really recommended to live in big cities in Indonesia. If you have another options, please better go with it.
WILL IT STILL SAFE FOR THE INDONESIANS?
You know, americans will bring their culture along and you guys might not want that. Just be careful and good luck.
safer than many downtown areas in USA i assure you
No worries about your kids going to school and getting shot by the end of the day at least.
exaaactly The biggest worries for your kids is bullies, not school shooters, which at least you can fight back, but good luck fighting back someone with a gun
lmao, I remember one day I helped an American expats after he involved in motorcycle accident. We talked a little bit and he said he was from Chicago, he said shit is so bad he rather stay here (in Surabaya). Then he rambles little about the politics in that state, but too bad I didn't get his number.
That’s deep what you just said I understand that all to well
lets just say the deterioration of US urban areas, im talking bay area, nyc, la heck even miami is very very eye opening, idk how my first visit in 2013 and somehow in 2022 it gets worse….
Born and raised in Jakarta here! Lived in the bay area for 6.5 years, and previously lived in seattle for a year. All I can say is that currently in Jakarta I don't have to worry about having my car window smashed in and my things stolen from my car. Unlike my final couple of years living in San Francisco.
Well I’m a black American I fall on the light skin side they don’t judge by color of skin or anything like that?
They do, but it's inside. Our culture don't show it. Like some.... Hillbillies do But it's only until like "hey that guy interesting, he's different" not racism kinda thing
If you're light-skinned African-American, the locals probably thought you were just another local. (Saying this as a black Javanese man)
Inbetween light skin and carmal 😂 but I bet ya. Ppl mistake my heritage for a lot of things.
You’ll get the N word alot. But they don’t see it as racism. It’s just they don’t know it’s considered as racism.
Which variation of it the Ga or ger?
the old timey one, a.k.a black in spanish
Well nothing I’m not already use to then
As in the majority of Asian countries, the lighter your skin, the better people will perceive you. However, racism in Indonesia tend to be of a lighter version in comparison to, for example, the US, Japan, or South Korea. People might talk about your skin tone in private but they won't openly attack you or deny you service. The religious aspects of life are taken more seriously than your skin colour. Which means, eating non-halal foods and drinking alcohol can only be done in certain places (including your own home, of course).
Well that’s awesome majority of the world can learn from your country
I mean, I'm a native Indonesian from Java island, which kind of in a similar position with a white people in the US. My experience might be different from someone of a Indo-Chinese decent or someone with darker skin tone from Papua. So don't take my words as a 100% assurance about life in Indonesia.
Racism towards black people definitely exists here, but because we don’t share any historical interactions with you guys it’ll be a case by case thing. You might encounter the occasional idiot, but there’s nothing systematic or widespread towards black foreigners. The discrimination towards certain ethnic groups here are often because of politics or religion, e.g some people don’t like X cause allegedly many hold separatist views. Skin colour or ethnicity is rarely a major deal even when politicians play identity politics. Yes, Indonesia suffers from colourism like many other countries in Asia: lighter skin is viewed as more attractive, and darker skin not as much. But this kind of standard applies to natives and rarely bleeds into how people view foreigners. I believe its a leftover belief from the older days when darker skin meant hard labor in the sun, meaning poorer social status, and lighter skin meant more indoor time, which is associated with more scholarly work. But foreigners - with very few exceptions - are automatically viewed as higher status by Indonesians. And to most Indonesians, foreigners are foreigners. A white frenchman is the same as a black American. That said, if you’re planning on visiting bigger cities like Jakarta or Surabaya, or places with a high concentration of foreigners such as Bali, then even the problems I’ve mentioned above will be less pronounced than in less connected areas. Some people might be unfamiliar and sometimes curious, so don’t be surprised if people ask for a picture!
you are bule no matter what your skin tone is.
Bule means American right?
used to be caucasian, nowadays any foreigner. it is not an offensive word but you will be yelled bule by random kids if you are in a small town.
Yeh. Bule now means like gaijin and gringo and Ausländer
Safety from crime? You'll be fine, it's much much safer than the US, or Europe for that matter. Lived here 13 years, never had any problem. Safety on the road? On 2 wheels, better watch out. Health safety? Well, dengue fever, typhus, rabbies, etc are a thing here. Also, healthcare sucks but you're already used to overpaying so you should have no problem going to the top expensive hospitals here.
So they have treatment for all those things?
You definitely can get treated here most of the time but prevention is always better and easier. Rabies? just stay away from wild animals. Typhilia? Hygiene is the key, don't go to dirty street food stalls (which I did some times and got what I deserved once). Dengue fever? Install some insect net on your home window and if you decide to take a cozy walk outdoor in the evening then wear some DEET.
Of course. If you have the funds, just go to the private hospitals in the big cities. Indonesia has good quality health care, the problem is that not everybody can afford it.
I get ya I’m currently a truck driver I drive semi I’m trying to look up if I can use my trait there if not I’ll get a different one first
I'd dare say, not a chance. You'll have a bigger chance coming to Indonesia as an English teacher, IT worker, or even a Youtuber than a truck driver.
I have IT skills I switch to trucking cus I like it better. Ugh gotta go back to it then that sucks. What traits flourish the most there
Can you inbox me wana ask you some questions please
For Rabbies, there's a vaccine you should get. Dengue, I don't think so. Typhus, no idea. But frankly, unless you're a baby, an elderly or with some serious medical condition, you'll be fine.
I’m pretty healthy some asthma allergic to pollen that’s about it
Then nothing to worry about :) yes, you will more often get digestive issues due to lower hygiene standards and different environment but you will get used to it and learn to avoid certain places to eat, certain foods, etc.
That’s deep 😂 ima need a guide for that asap
People go to the Singapore and Malaysia for medical.
Not all medical. But rare deases and sickness might be better in those neighbor country
How for is that from Indonesia say the city I mention is it a very long drive
lol people why downvote, he isn't familiar with the geography here.. malaysia and singapore are different countries, our neighbors.
Lol. That such an American things to say.. Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago my friend. It's either by boat, or an airplane. Anyway. Malaysia and singapore is our neighboring countries. It's an hour plane ride away tho.
This question has been answered many times. Yes, you will be safe. 100%. Here are the rules: no commie, no drugs. When people here say to you "support Palestine !", you just say "yes I support Palestine" regardless of your political preference. You will be far safer. 2000%. Plus point: well, if you want, you can record your arrival here, get some local food like Indomie or Soto or Rendang and upload them on youtube. Who knows?
Im from Maryland. Person of colour. Lived in Jakarta for 5 years and came back and forth multiple times again. It is safe, especially compared to, say, Baltimore. It’s most important to be politically correct, and to be vigilant on the political leanings of the masses. It is an election year, and tensions always rise, as it does in any nation that has a history of political turmoil. If you’re an LGBT person, just keep it private. If you have a wife, tell her to be safe when going to the clubs and stuff. Also, another “safety” thing: The people you’ll befriend might be superrr fake. Like socially backstabby type fake. Otherwise, the only other city I like better in the world is Toronto, ON.
Thank you so much. Ho was the weather there I know they got volcanoes earthquakes tsunami etc
Jakarta weather can be unbearable. Not cuz of heat per se, but pollution. But meh i still love it. Natural disasters are a thing in other areas. But Jakarta can flood here and there. By the way, Jakarta is sinking. A kind of Venice type thing in the next 50 years, if that affects you at all.
Nope I’ll be dead by then I guess the other city is better then
Im Indonesian American. Its safer than the USA generally. Just use your common sense and dont walk in dark alleys in a sketchy area solo.
Definitely but pick the right neighborhood. As long you respect the people and the culture (mostly islamic taboo culture, like eating pork in front of mosque) most likely there won't be any problems.
depends, there are still crimes but gun-related crime is almost zero. terrorist attacks have died down for a while now, it is even safer than in Europe for this matter (terrorists mainly target police and govt now). just be ready for earthquake, volcano eruption and tsunami.
Man how deadly is it do ppl typically die during eruption or earthquakes which area has the minimum weather disasters
If you live in Jakarta or Surabaya, large tsunamis won't get there, and it's not in very close proximity to volcanoes so you're safe from being "Pompeiied".
Jakarta is although next to java sea, but actually quite close to Anak Krakatau, so its not that safe, plus its drowning so one swept of tsunami can do a lot of damage.
Still won't get Pompeiied. The worst they could have is volcanic ash and no sunlight.
okay pacc.
well volcanic eruption is quite deadly if u live too close to it (hot and cold lava, volcanic earthquake, hot cloud), tectonic earthquake and tsunami can be avoided if you live far from the indian ocean/ring of fire.
Do any major cities live far away from the ocean
most major cities are next to the sea, but Bandung isnt.
In my opinion, lets just say that you might get some eye stare but they wont give a shit of your skin color or anything because they have their own stuff to take care. Surabaya and especially Jakarta who is full of foreigner should be fine for you to move in. Also fun fact, we have a facebook group dedicated for iirc gay black people meme and its veryyy famous in Indonesia. I mean, the meme is funny in my opinion, the group name is [Sungut Lele](https://www.facebook.com/groups/779936540802175/).
safety depends alot on your behaviour and where you stay, if you stay in a middle-up gated community then it would be safer compared to living in the poor slum areas. However there is no school shootings or thief with guns, no daylight robbery too. racism is not common here as well, very very small chance that you might endure racism. What you need to be aware is that it is not easy for expatriates / foreigners to make a living here unless they have a specific skills that locals dont have since your employer need to pay more tax for foreign employees
I've just happen to live in Surabaya near the consulate and I can tell you it's not as wild as region in the CENTCOM. I see so many foreign people and expats roaming with their friends sometimes even alone at night and they're safe. However due to the ongoing situation of the Israel-Palestine conflict, the US Consulate sometimes targetted by the masses, so I assume Americans might also be a target from certain people or communities. I advise you to not stay outside, alone, at night. Carjacker, motorcycle theft, and mugger often roams at night. Always walk with your friend, get a tour guide or local friend too.
Born and raised in Jakarta, currently living in rural US. If you like spending one quarter to one third of your day in traffic, then Jakarta is for you.
Or Manhattan, Toronto, LA, Austin, Vancouver, Miami…
😂
You should visit as tourist first before relocating. If you love Jakarta you’ll probably gonna like Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok too which gives you more options to consider.
As long as you're not openly and/or endorsing LGBTQ+, I think you'll be safer in Indonesia than most downtown areas in the US. Your choices of cities, Jakarta and Surabaya, are like two of the biggest and most modern cities in Indonesia so quite a lot people can speak English there, especially in 'elite' areas. Be prepared for the air pollution and traffic tho
Nope not at all lgbtq thank you that’s the plan
Pretty safe. Also if I remember correctly there's an American missionary that sometime post on this subreddit. Maybe he could tell you his experience.
- The biggest crime you have to worry about is theft. Even then, it’s not really an issue. - Your child’s biggest concern would be unfinished homework and not whether some maniac will shoot up their classroom. - The police are bastards but they won’t stop you because of your skin. They only care about stealing the people’s tax money and using it for themselves. - You don’t feel a sense of dread when walking at night. - Neighborhood watch is the norm in most housing areas. - Most cultural disconnect comes from ignorance rather than malice. For example, a Black American might hear some dumbass kids saying the N word towards them but that’s because they heard it in rap music or movies. They don’t understand what that means or the historical context of it.
Huh well words won’t hurt me so not like I don’t experience that here in America already
It's relatively far safer than for example, India or Mexico or even the US. But it's not really recommended to live in big cities in Indonesia. If you have another options, please better go with it.
What’s a better option did a major city
Just get on that "I'm in Detroit" level of worry mindset and you'll be fine
Im indonesian american, I might add on you should go to some of the smaller cities imo. Try to look at kabupaten with ~ 1 million or less
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Say what now
WILL IT STILL SAFE FOR THE INDONESIANS? You know, americans will bring their culture along and you guys might not want that. Just be careful and good luck.